Paolo Banchero has inked a big-time endorsement deal. Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Report: Paolo Banchero finalizing endorsement deal with Jordan Brand

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Alex Evans | Last updated 7/28/22

Paolo Banchero has inked a big-time endorsement deal before playing in his first regular-season NBA game.

Banchero is finalizing a deal with Jordan Brand, according to a report.

Orlando Magic No. 1 overall pick Paolo Banchero is finalizing an endorsement deal with Jordan Brand, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 28, 2022

The former Duke star was selected No. 1 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic.

Banchero will join a number of current NBA stars who are signed to Jordan Brand, including Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul, Jayson Tatum, Luka Doncic and Zion Williamson. Doncic and Williamson attended a Jordan Brand event as ambassadors in Paris during July’s 2022 Quai 54 World Streetball Championship tournament.

Jordan Brand must strongly believe that Banchero is primed for a successful career given its early investment in the young player. While his play on the court is to be determined, Banchero did act like a veteran on social media earlier this offseason.

The 19-year-old shined during his lone season at Duke, averaging 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.1 steals in 39 games. Banchero, a consensus All-American, was also a First-Team All-ACC selection and named ACC Rookie of the Year.

In two NBA Summer League games, Banchero averaged 20.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 2.5 steals per game.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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